OHIO VALLEY — Several stories are developing across the region, including changes in leadership at Brooke High School, an alleged attack on sheriff’s deputies in Columbiana County and the sentencing of a former Bellaire teacher and coach.
The Brooke County Board of Education voted unanimously Monday to terminate Eric James as principal of Brooke High School. Superintendent Jeffery Crook said James submitted a resignation letter after the agenda for Monday’s meeting had already been released. Trey Zambito is now serving as interim principal.
James is also facing two additional wiretap violation charges following a preliminary hearing Monday. A magistrate set bond at $200,000 in connection with the latest charges. His attorney requested additional time to consolidate the matters into one hearing, which was continued until Sept. 21. Nearly two dozen protesters gathered outside the hearing calling for accountability.
In Columbiana County, authorities say a man became violent after being sentenced on assault charges Monday. Timothy Reaggle allegedly attacked two sheriff’s deputies while being escorted from the courtroom, leaving one deputy injured and requiring hospital treatment. Reaggle fled the courtroom before deputies used a Taser to subdue him. He was taken back into custody and could face additional charges.
In Belmont County, former Bellaire High School teacher and coach Shawn Valloric was sentenced Monday to 14 to 15 years in prison for possessing and sharing child sexual abuse material. Belmont County Common Pleas Judge John Vavra imposed the sentence. Following his release, Valloric will be required to register as a sex offender every six months for 25 years.
St. Clairsville officials are also considering possible pay increases for city department leaders. The city’s finance committee discussed the issue Monday, with officials saying any increases would be funded through money already left unspent rather than through new taxes.
In Ohio County, livestreaming of County Commission meetings could return as early as next month. The broadcasts were discontinued after equipment problems developed last fall. County Administrator Randy Russell said new equipment has been ordered to address unreliable internet service in the boardroom.
And in Wheeling, 7 Brew has opened a new location along National Road. The coffee chain held its grand opening Monday, drawing enough traffic that the Wheeling Police Department issued a congestion warning.
River News will continue following these and other developing stories throughout the Ohio Valley.
